How police brought a smile to pensioner on his birthday with a simple gesture that will warm your heart

Arthur Hughes, 78, received a birthday surprise from his daughter and North Wales Police (Image: NWP)

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An elderly man due to celebrate his 78th birthday in lockdown received an unexpected treat thanks to his daughter and North Wales Police.

Arthur Hughes has walked the same route along the beach in Conwy with his dog, Cassie every day for the last five years.

But because of the coronavirus outbreak, everything had to change due to the fact that Mr Hughes is not in the best of health.

His daughter, Michelle Stockham, had noticed that since social distancing rules were enforced, her dad seemed down and hadn't quite been himself.

In a bid to make her father’s birthday special, Mrs Stockham contacted the force's West Conwy team and asked if they could arrange for the barrier on the beach car park to be lifted for a short time earlier this week.

Arthur Hughes and his dog Cassie looking out over Deganwy. (Image: North Wales Police)

The team were glad to help and Mr Hughes was able to sit in his favourite place with his dog and enjoy the sunshine.

Mrs Stockham said: “Dad is not in the best of health and hasn’t been his usual cheery self since not being able to get out, so when the officers arranged to meet us at the car park it made his day very special.

“He had a lovely time.

"He just sat on the bench in his favourite place overlooking Deganwy with Cassie and reflected on things.

"He absolutely loved it and I can’t thank the officers enough for their kindness."